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Billions in the bush: Renewable energy for regional prosperity 

Read our report on the economic benefits clean energy is delivering to farmers and regional communities across Australia.

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<p>Billions in the bush: Renewable energy for regional prosperity&nbsp;</p>
18 Nov 2024

Large-scale renewable energy projects are estimated to deliver $1 billion to farmers and $200 million to regional communities by 2030, according to our report with Farmers for Climate Action.

Renewables are not only keeping the lights on as coal plants reach the end of their technical life, but they’re also creating jobs and alternative income streams and benefits right across Australian communities.


Farmers are earning a significant income stream from hosting renewable energy projects alongside existing farming activities
The report shows farmers can earn $38,500 to $45,500 per year from hosting a typical 7MW turbine and up to $1,250 per hectare from solar. For comparison, a beef farmer can expect returns of $1,500 per hectare per year in a good year.
Communities are receiving direct contributions to residents, First Nations groups and local councils
Our analysis shows contributions are expected to deliver $213 million by 2030 and $1.9 billion to 2050, supporting regional communities to thrive.
Opportunities across regional Australia can reach $9.7 to 11.7 billion by 2050
Based on total renewable capacity, farmers and landholders in NSW are expected to receive $290 million - $371 million by 2030, while those in Queensland are expected to receive $220 million - $274 million; those in Victoria are expected to receive $238 million - $288 million, those in South Australia are expected to receive $109 million - $132 million and those in Tasmania are expected to receive $41 million to $48 million. The report only looks at the National Electricity Market, covering eastern and southern states and territories.

Billions in the bush: Renewable energy for regional prosperity

from the Clean Energy Council and Farmers for Climate Action